Table 1 Factors of importance to patients (a summation of patient perspectives)

Day-to-day life with JIA

I want to find the right balance of treatment that fits in with my life

I want to be able to manage my new responsibilities such as a new job

I want to be able to deal with the physical limitations my condition places on me, such as carrying books

I want to be in control of my condition whilst at university

Emotional and developmental factors

I need to find the right language for me when discussing my condition with my boyfriend/ girlfriend/ friends

I am concerned about flare-ups during the summer when my body is on show

I need coping mechanisms to be able to keep up with my friends and our social lives

Seeking independence

I want to put everything in place to facilitate my travelling plans

I want to be able to manage without my parents

I want to prove to my parents that I can manage my condition successfully

I want a portfolio of options to be able to manage pain or flares when this occurs, each one to be used depending on my circumstances